NFL alternate lines allow bettors to select a different spread, total or moneyline from the sportsbook’s standard market.
What Are NFL Alternate Lines?
NFL alternate lines are another option for bettors when playing at a sportsbook. They deviate from the standard wagers by having different point spreads, game totals or moneylines. It is a consideration for those who aren’t sure about the benchmarks.
A simple example:
If the standard spread is: Chiefs -3.5
An alternate market might offer: Chiefs -1.5, Chiefs -5.5, or Chiefs -7.5
With the movement to alternate NFL alternate spreads, understand the odds will likely change with them, too. This is a must to recognize and factor in when considering your options.
How NFL Alternate Spreads Work
Alternate spreads allow you to come up with a line that is comfortable for betting. Take the original NFL betting lines and check the different options offered via alternate lines. It simply has the original line moved off that number and by building a choice you like better, you can take it and it shakes up the actual NFL betting odds on your wager. You get something and have to give something back in return, the adjustment of your odds.
Moving the Spread in Your Favor
When it comes to NFL alternate spreads, you can have the line moved in your favor. By doing so, you are getting more of a cushion if you are taking points. For example:
Market Hypothetical odds
Team A -1.5 -150
Team A -3.5 -110
Team A -5.5 +125
The numbers vary by sportsbook and by game.
Moving the Spread Against Your Pick
Another opportunity when it comes to NFL point spreads is to move it against your pick. For example, Team A is a five-point favorite. But you think the team will win by more than that so you build the spread to seven, nine or whatever points. In doing so, you can make the NFL betting odds grow in your favor. It is risk/reward. The greater risk you take, the greater the chance for a bigger reward.
How NFL Alternate Totals Work
NFL alternate totals can also be manipulated. For example:
If the standard total is 47.5, alternate totals could include:
- Over 44.5
- Over 45.5
- Over 49.5
- Under 49.5
- Under 51.5
The basic trade-off:
- Lower Over → generally shorter odds
- Higher Over → generally longer odds
- Higher Under → generally shorter odds
- Lower Under → generally longer odds
Why Matchups Matter When Choosing an Alternate Total
When choosing an alternate total, you are counting on some factors about the team. If you move the total up, you believe there will be tremendous offense. The team or teams have powerful attacks and can surpass the number. On the other hand, if you seek a lower number, you think it will be a defensive game. Is a quarterback injured and a backup playing? That could lead to a lower number. Also, look at weather conditions, red-zone efficiency and pace of play.
When Might Bettors Consider an Alternate Line?
Some options where considering NFL alternate lines could lead to a decision where you want to move the actual line:
- A bettor expects a close game but dislikes the standard -3.5 spread.
- A bettor expects a favorite to win by a larger margin.
- A bettor believes the standard total is too high or too low.
- A bettor wants to select a different risk/odds combination.
The Risk-Reward Trade-Off
Moving a line in your favor will lead to a shorter set of odds. However, if you move the line away from the original, making it longer as a favorite or total, or shorter on an underdog, the risk would provide greater rewards.
Where To Check NFL Betting Lines
When looking for NFL betting lines, you can check reputable sportsbooks like BetUS. Review the available NFL betting lines, then look at how standard and alternate spreads or totals differ.
Betting lines and odds can move before kickoff and available markets vary between games and sportsbooks. Most importantly, bettors should only wager what they can afford.
FAQs
What are NFL alternate lines?
Alternate lines give bettors additional spread or total options beyond the sportsbook’s primary line.
Are NFL alternate lines better than standard lines?
Neither is inherently better. Alternate lines provide more flexibility, but the associated odds change accordingly.
Why do NFL alternate lines have different odds?
Moving the spread or total changes the difficulty of the selected outcome, so the sportsbook adjusts the price.
Can NFL alternate lines be used for totals?
Aternate totals can be offered, allowing bettors to select different over/under thresholds from the standard total.
